But with only four days in town, we have to be mercilessly selective: After all, that's only 12 meals and 8 snacks! Our own guide to the Top 5 Must-Visit Restaurants in Austin covers the best picks for Texas-style barbecue, true Mexican food, and sushi--yes, sushi--in the city, but where else should we go? (Full disclosure: Our toddler will be riding shotgun on this trip, and while she's far from a nuggetarian, she's not, shall we say, the most elegant fine dining companion.)

SnackBar has open-air space and food for the whole family from local sources. Downtown by RiverWalk.

Sway is new, has communal tables and a range of VERY good food served as it comes from the kitchen. You can sit outside.

vmatters 02:39:32 PM on 04/24/13

Lucy's Fried Chicken

footeje 12:07:53 PM on 04/24/13

Eastside Cafe is a nostalgic favorite for me; they were farm-to-table long before it was fashionable, and their food is simple and delicious. I also think it would be a fine spot for a toddler, especially at lunch time.